Jaxson Neckien Lends His Strength to Westlake: A Heartfelt Update
Westlake High’s Jaxson Neckien Shines on the Field
Westlake High’s junior outfielder, Jaxson Neckien, stands out on the baseball diamond not only for his height—6 feet 4 inches—but also for his unconventional approach at the plate. Eschewing typical protective gear, Neckien enters the batter’s box without gloves, arm shields, or foot shields, allowing him to focus quickly on the game rather than settling in.
At the start of the week, his contributions were instrumental in keeping Westlake tied for first place in the Marmonte League alongside Oaks Christian. Coach Wally Barnett notes, “He’s old school,” reflecting on Neckien’s straightforward style.
Neckien’s performance has been nothing short of impressive. With six home runs and a batting average of .429, he has proven to be a key asset to the team. Barnett recognized his potential last season, promoting him to the varsity squad during the playoffs despite a roster filled with seniors. “I had high hopes for him this season and he’s really come through,” Barnett added.
The challenges Neckien faced earlier in his career seem to have faded, as evidenced by his remarkable .517 batting average over the past nine games. This upward trajectory highlights his readiness and determination to excel on the field.
